Drivers urged to keep speed up through new open toll lanes

New lanes allow E-ZPass users to travel without stopping for tolls

Open road tolling lanes are now open on Interstate 93 in Hooksett, and transportation officials are urging motorists to drive through them at highway speeds.

The new tolling lanes allow drivers with E-ZPass transponders to keep traveling at 65 mph through the tolls. Transportation officials said it's important that drivers maintain their speed when using the new lanes.

"Traffic is moving smoothly through the new ORT lanes at highway speeds of up to 65 mph," said Chris Waszczuk of the Department of Transportation. "Stopping or slowing down for any reason in those lanes is potentially a serious safety issue and is highly discouraged."

The new system has not been without problems. There are warning signs letting drivers know about the changes and where to go, similar to the Hampton Tolls.

But there has still been confusion as people get used to the new lanes.

Antonio Robinson was one of many drivers who didn't realize he was in the E-ZPass lane until it was too late.

"I kept on going. I was like if I get a bill in the mail I get a bill. I'll pay it. There's nothing much I can really do about it," said Robinson.

That's what the DOT said drivers should do -- just keep going.

A camera will capture your license plate number and you'll get a letter in the mail charging you for the toll, plus a $1 fee.

"Similar to when we introduced them at the Hampton tolls three years ago there is a transition period and motorists are making the adjustments and getting used to it," said Bill Boynton with NH DOT.

The ORT lanes are the far left lanes for both northbound and southbound vehicles. They're designed for users of E-ZPass and compatible systems, but officials said anyone who doesn't have a transponder who accidentally drives through the lanes should also keep driving at highway speeds and not stop or try to swerve.

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